Planet USA team for AHL all-star game features 16 first-timers

2008-01-10 19:50:00

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. - There will be plenty of Planet USA players getting their first taste of the AHL all-star game when it's held later this month.

The squad's complete roster was released Thursday and features 16 players that have never appeared in the league's annual showcase. Rookie goaltender Tuukka Rask of Providence, forward Bobby Ryan of Portland and defenceman Brian Lee of Binghamton are among that group.

Albany's Keith Aucoin will be the team's captain while the coaching staff is still to be decided.

The Planet USA team consists of 24 players born outside Canada. They will face a Canadian team at the Jan. 28 game in Binghamton, N.Y.

The Canadian team, which was unveiled Tuesday, features 15 first-time all-stars.